Mukesh Khanna and Feroz Khan shared an interesting dynamic in the film Yalgaar (1992), directed by Feroz Khan himself. One of the more controversial aspects of the film was Mukesh Khanna being cast as Feroz Khan’s father, despite being 10 years younger than him.
Now, after over 32 years, Mukesh Khanna has opened up about the reason behind agreeing to do the film and his equation with the actor-director.
In an interview with Bollywood Thikana, Mukesh Khanna reflected on his role in ‘Yalgaar’, expressing that it made him a ‘joke’ in the industry. He explained that during a scene at the breakfast table, where Feroz Khan referred to him as ‘dad,’ many in the industry found it humorous and turned it into a point of ridicule.
Mukesh Khanna shared that after the incident during Yalgaar, he began avoiding Feroz Khan. However, they eventually crossed paths at
Sanjay Khan
’s daughter’s wedding, where Feroz noticed Mukesh’s behavior and approached him. Mukesh revealed that he had been upset with Feroz since the premiere of Yalgaar. In response, Feroz explained that he had been preoccupied with something and had simply forgotten about it.
Mukesh admitted to Feroz that audiences did not accept him in the role of his father. Feroz then responded by saying he cast Mukesh because of his strong Pitamah image, which left Mukesh without further objections.
Despite the controversy, Mukesh Khanna and Feroz Khan shared a cordial professional relationship. Khanna respected Feroz Khan’s vision as a filmmaker. Although the role in ‘Yalgaar’ led to some criticism, Khanna continued to pursue diverse roles in both television and film, solidifying his place in
Indian entertainment
.
